This article will explain what is .wtdi ransomware and help you remove the .NET CryptoWall.exe ransomware plus restore encrypted files on your computer.
A ransomware virus believed to imitate the notorious CryptoWall and is written in .NET has appeared in the wild. The virus uses the .wtdi file extension which it adds to the files encrypted by it, after which changes the wallpaper on the infected computer with a message in red bold letters, reportedly written in Russian. The malicious files of the fake CryptoWall ransomware virus have a rest in peace (RIP) icon. In case your computer has been infected by this ransomware infection, we advise reading the following material.
Threat Summary
Name | .wtdi Virus |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts the files on the infected PC’s asking a ransom to be paid to get them back. |
Symptoms | Encrypts the files on the infected computer and changes the wallpaper with request to contact the crooks via ICQ. Files are appended the .wtdi file extension to them. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .wtdi Virus. |
Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
CryptoWall .wtdi – How Does It Infect
The primary method of infecting victims with this ransomware virus is via taking advantage of the inexperienced users by sending massive e-mail spam. The messages within the sent e-mails contain deceptive messages that aim to convince the victim to either click on a web link that causes a malicious redirect or open a malicious e-mail attachment. E-mails may have deceptive content, like the following:
The web link in the example above, then leads to a fake web page of DHL which automatically triggers a download of a .zip archive in which the payload of viruses, like the .wtdi CryptoWall may be contained in loaders. These loader type of files, when opened may extract the payload of the virus on the infected computer.
Other methods by which you could become a victim of the CryptoWall .wtdi ransomware virus are by downloading fake setups, clicking on malicious web links posted on suspicious sites, or downloading fake updates or installers of software.
CryptoWall .wtdi File Virus – More Information
During the infection process, the loader file downloaded from the spam e-mails or other distribution methods may drop the main payload file, named CryptoWall.exe as reported in VirusTotal:
Then, the ransomware may set the file to run automatically on Windows start-up. This is achievable by modifying the Windows Registry Editor, more specifically the following sub-keys:
- Run
- RunOnce
In those sub-keys, value strings with custom data are added. They may have random names, or the name of the executable, in this case CryptoWall. The malicious string has the location of the CryptoWall.exe file.
After this has completed, the .wtdi file virus may also delete the shadow volume copies on the infected computer. This is achievable by executing the vssadmin command in administrative Windows mode. This command is responsible for deleting those copies and eliminating all of the chances to retrieve the encrypted files via this method. The command is in different parameters, like the image below displays:
Other activity of the CryptoWall.exe .wtdi ransomware infection includes the obtaining of various system information, such as the Windows version, the IP address and other system details. In addition to this, the virus file of the .wtdi ransomware may also establish connection to multiple different third-party websites, that may eventually prove to download more malicious files on the infected computer, besides just transfer file encryption and decryption keys.
How Does CryptoWall .wtdi Encrypt Files
For the encryption process, the CryptoWall ransomware virus uses multiple different techniques by which it encrypts the files on compromised computers. The main files that are targeted for encryption by this CryptoWall imposter variant are:
- Documents.
- Music.
- Videos.
- Audio files.
- Archives.
- Disk image files.
- Other important and often used file types.
After the virus completes the encryption process, the files are rendered no longer able to be opened. This results in them being added the .wtdi file extension. The files may look like the following:
After the encryption process by this ransomware virus has already finished, this infection then drops it’s ransom note in Russian:
Translation:
In general, litter. But we’re a little pissed off and encrypted all your documentation. If you want to decipher them, you need to pay. how
It is said that only the mouse in the mousetrap is free of charge =)) Be nice and
Pay. Or you will not see your files =)
Here is the account number: UNIQUEID
And this is the connection with us: ICQ
We’ll say how much will the decoder cost …
Remove CryptoWall Imposter and Restore .wtdi Encrypted Files
For the removal of this ransomware virus, we advise following the instructions below. Since this virus may create multiple files in unknown Windows locations, malware researchers recommend hunting it down automatically by using an advanced anti-malware software. Such will also protect your computer In the future as well.
In case you are interested in restoring your encrypted files, we would suggest you to check this article regularly, since malware researchers may soon develop a decrypter for this virus. In the meantime, focus on alternative tricks to restore the files, like the ones we suggested below. They aim to help you restore at least some of the files encrypted by this ransomware virus.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .wtdi Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .wtdi Virus and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .wtdi Virus on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by .wtdi Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove .wtdi Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .wtdi Virus.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and .wtdi Virus aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
.wtdi Virus-FAQ
What is .wtdi Virus Ransomware?
.wtdi Virus is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does .wtdi Virus Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does .wtdi Virus Infect?
Via several ways..wtdi Virus Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of .wtdi Virus is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open ..wtdi Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..wtdi Virus files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your ..wtdi Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..wtdi Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..wtdi Virus files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of .wtdi Virus Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate .wtdi Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..wtdi Virus files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can .wtdi Virus Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the .wtdi Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .wtdi Virus how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the .wtdi Virus ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
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